Statistics for the behavioral sciences - Gregory J. Privitera

An engaging introduction to statistics, the text provides readers with a tool for learning about behaviour without requiring a strong background in research methods. This comprehensive, yet conversational, text includes making sense sections to help relate and explain material that is often difficult for students to comprehend. The book provides instructions for using SPSS statistical software in each chapter with helpful examples and over 100 screen shots. Gregory Privitera takes a user-friendly approach while balancing statistical theory, computation, and application with the technical instruction needed for students to succeed in the modern era of data collection, analysis, and statistical interpretation.

- 'making sense' sections break down the most difficult concepts in statistics for students, review important material, and basically "make sense" of the most challenging material. These sections are aimed at easing student stress, and making statistics more approachable.

- 'research in focus' sections in Chapters 1 through 7 provide context by reviewing pertinent, current research that makes sense of or illustrates important statistical concepts discussed in the chapter. This feature prepares students to read research articles by providing examples on how a particular statistical method is reported.

-"SPSS in focus" sections provide step-by-step, classroom-tested instruction using practical research examples for how the concepts taught in each chapter can be applied using SPSS. Students are supported with screen shot figures and explanations for how to read SPSS output.

- numerous opportunities for practice are found in the 32-38 problems at the ends of each chapter. These are divided into different kinds of problems (factual problems, concept and application problems, and problems in research) categorized for easier identification and flexibility of assessment by instructors.

Gregory J. Privitera is an Associate Professor of Psychology at St. Bonaventure University. He received his Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience at the University at Buffalo and went on to complete post-doctoral research at Arizona State University before coming to St. Bonaventure. A veteran of the U.S. Marines, he is also the author of more than two dozen peer-reviewed articles and books on the role of social cognition and learning on eating behavior and health. His work has been recognized in a variety of ways, including university awards for teaching and research. He oversees a variety of undergraduate research projects at St. Bonaventure University with more than a dozen undergraduate student research projects leading to publication in peer-reviewed journals. In the community, Dr. Privitera is a member of the Board of Trustees for a local elementary and high school where his children attend the elementary school.